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Breastfeeding Questions - Not Enough Breastmilk
I do not appear to be producing enough breastmilk to satisfy my baby leaving him frustrated. Is there anything I can do? I don't think I've been drinking enough fluids. Would this have an effect?
Yes, sometimes you can get a little dehydrated when you are breastfeeding and you may find you need to drink more water to keep up your milk supply. You will probably feel thirsty anyway.
Another tip is to try to get some rest when the baby is sleeping as this can really help. I know this can be very difficult when you have other children to look after. But sometimes you simply have to put yourself first.
Put a video on for the younger children and lie down on the sofa yourself. This should keep everyone happy and help your milk supply to increase!
Of course, he may just be going through a growth spurt. By demanding more milk he is stimulating your body to produce it. This is very common and can seem incessant. It usually lasts two or three days and then settles down again.
The first few weeks are the most difficult but, believe me, things will settle down in time.
I hope this helps.
If you are at all concerned about your baby, get your GP or health visitor to check him out. But, as long as he has plenty of wet and dirty nappies every day and is gaining weight he should be getting enough breastmilk.
You may like to consider going to a breastfeeding support group where you can chat to other breastfeeding mums and professionals about breastfeeding issues and get plenty of reassurance. I attend one myself every week and find it a fabulous source of information. Your health visitor should be able to recommend one!
Best Wishes,
Sinead